Blog List

$20 well spent

March 11, 2013 - Mike Donahey

After this winter’s first snowfall, I resolved I was not going fall, slip or slide on ice or snow while walking the dog.

That led, wisely, to a purchase of Yaktrax Walk at a downtown retailer. Several runners at the Marshalltown YMCA-YWCA had sworn by the brand for their winter running regimens.

Yaktrax are a lightweight and easy to use ice-traction device. Wire coils — not spikes provide the traction. They easily slip on over dress shoes, running shoes and work boots. Once on, they stay on.

Mine cost but $20 — easily one of the best investments I’ve ever made. I’ve walked our dog with ease over much ice and snow, not falling once. I've worn mine shoveling the walk, too. I even ran wearing them once. Joining me was my my daughter — who runs frequently and had bought a more upscale version — the Yaktrax Pro model — which was more suitable for her needs.

My youngest daughter does much walking where she attends college — consequently, I gave her a pair like mine for Christmas.

I learned on the company’s website that they manufacture models specifically for hiking, running and to cover ski boots too. Yaktrax was originally conceptualized when an outdoor adventurer exploring the Himalayas encountered a season Sherpa striding confidently across a slick, icy surface, said the website. What was seen on the Sherpa’s feet sparked an invention — the Yaktrax patented coil traction device.